We, the undersigned, declare the following:
The situation for civilians in Syria – particularly those belonging to minority groups such as Christians, Druze and Alawites – has become increasingly precarious following recent territorial control by the Sunni extremist group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
As HTS has consolidated its power in Syria, fears of reprisal and systematic discrimination against persons belonging to religious and ethnic minorities have risen exponentially.
Reports indicate that minorities are experiencing an escalation of violence, including threats, intimidation, and targeted attacks which include killings and summary executions. Civilians are particularly at risk, facing harassment and social ostracism. There are documented cases of forced conversion, extortion and restrictions on religious practices, severely undermining the freedom that these minority groups once had in areas under HTS control.
The international community must urgently address the plight of these minorities in Syria. It is essential to foster dialogue and to safeguard the rights of all Syrians, regardless of their religious or ethnic background. The situation calls for immediate humanitarian assistance as well as long-term strategies and urgent measures to make sure that the rights of all persons are protected throughout the Syrian territory. The international community must also be ready to use sanctions or other action if minority groups are endangered.